The Trans-Oil Group reports a new serious incident in the Black Sea, posing additional risks to the safety of maritime transport and the timely fulfilment of export commitments regarding sunflower oil supplies from the Republic of Moldova.

On the evening of Saturday, 14 November, the tanker EVIAPETROL V was attacked by a military drone whilst at anchor at the entrance to the Sulina Canal, near the Romanian coast. The vessel was awaiting authorisation to pass through the Sulina Canal before proceeding to the Giurgiulești International Free Port, where it was scheduled to be loaded with approximately 6,500 tonnes of sunflower oil. As a result of the incident, the tanker sustained damage and, according to information available to Trans-Oil, will be unable to complete its scheduled voyage. All crew members are safe. According to preliminary reports, there were no casualties.

The management of the aforementioned group of companies is particularly concerned by the fact that this is already the second incident involving a tanker en route to the port of Giurgiulești to load vegetable oil in the last month. In this regard, it should be noted that on 15 October 2026, the tanker WINE TRADER, which was also heading for the same port, was attacked by drones in the Sulina area.

The recurrence of such incidents highlights the growing risks to civilian shipping in the Black Sea region and jeopardises the stability of the Republic of Moldova’s export logistics routes. For the Trans-Oil Group, the current situation has direct commercial and operational consequences. These include potential delays to shipments, additional logistical costs and the risk of failing to meet the originally agreed deadlines for the fulfilment of international contracts. These events are of an extraordinary nature and may be considered as force majeure in accordance with the terms of the relevant contracts and applicable legislation.

The Trans-Oil Group emphasises the paramount importance of the safety of crews and civilian vessels, as well as the need to ensure safe and predictable access to international maritime transport routes. Maintaining stable shipping through the Sulina Canal is of strategic importance for the export of agri-food products, the continuity of industrial activity and the sustainability of the Republic of Moldova’s foreign trade.

Source: logos-press.md